The Grand Parade of Oeteldonk, the name given to Den Bosch during the carnival, took place on Carnival Monday, 20 February 2023, as tradition dictates. The carnival parade has been held since 1882 and this year, for the very first time, was entirely sustainable thanks to Spijkstaal electric tow tractors provided by Steenks Service.

Spijkstaal 308 driving Spijkstaal 308 riding

Grand Parade of Oeteldonk

The Grand Parade of Den Bosch is the highlight of the carnival for the city and has been held since 1882, attracting 100,000 visitors each year. The 5 km route is always lined with people, several rows deep, all eager to see the floats pass by. In previous years, the floats were pulled by motorised tractors. This year, the city of Den Bosch, with the help of the carnival association, decided to take a different approach. The city wanted the parade to be entirely sustainable. In order to accomplish this, they decided that the floats would be pulled by Spijkstaal tow tractors of Steenks Service.

Pictures made by Tanja van Tuijn

Spijkstaal electric tow tractors

The carnival association of Oeteldonk hired seventeen Spijkstaal electric tow tractors from Steenks Service. These electric tow tractors are fully electric and use a full traction battery, allowing maximum power to be drawn from the motor immediately, thereby ensuring smooth towing of the floats. In addition, the electric tow tractors do emit no exhaust emissions, preventing participants and the crowds from being bothered by exhaust emissions.

Spijkstaal 308 in Den Bosch Spijkstaal 308 in the center of Den Bosch

Pictures of Marc Bolsius © uit het Brabants Dagblad

Spijkstaal 308

Spijkstaal 308 electric tow tractors were specifically used for the Grand Parade. The Spijkstaal 308 has a towing capacity of 8,000 kilos and is a ride-on tow tractor. This makes it suitable for towing heavy goods over lengthy distances. In addition, the trolley is also manoeuvrable so it can move easily through narrow passageways. Finally, the battery can last for a whole day without having to be recharged. Steenks Service thus advised the carnival association to hire these specific Spijkstaal 308 models.

Hiring a Spijkstaal tow tractor

At Steenks Service, you can hire Spijkstaal electric tow tractors all year round, whether for longer or shorter periods. When hiring, you will be offered appropriate advice and we will remain responsible for the service. In addition, we will also ensure that the electric tow tractors are equipped with a tow bar and corresponding battery charger. Interested in hiring an electric tow tractor or want to know more? Complete our online contact form or contact us on +31(0) 174 510 266.